Overall Winner: Galvin HOP
What does it take to be the best pub in the City? The answer is to change with the times. Out of all our finalists, Galvin HOP is the perfect example of how much the Great British pub has evolved from the primitive ale houses of old. Opening its doors in early 2016, HOP is the first foray into the pub game by the Michelin-starred Galvin brothers – and their share of 20% of the votes, shows they’ve hit the nail on the head.
From the unpasteurised Pilsner Urquell keeping thirsty City types hydrated after hours to their refined take on British pub fare, the Galvins haven’t tried to reinvent the wheel, merely perfect a winning formula. Unfussy and lacking in pretention, this bistro-cum-boozer is as polished a pub experience as you are likely to find anywhere in London.
The cherry on the top? Aside from slick interiors and a heavenly deluxe hot dog on the bar menu, you can’t argue with being able to order pub grub straight to your office desk, with a little help from Deliveroo, of course.
For more info, see galvinrestaurants.com
Runners Up: Craft Beer Co and The Blackfriar
While Galvin HOP illustrates how the demands on the modern boozer are changing, honourable mention goes to close runners-up, The Craft Beer Co and The Black Friar – two pubs at opposite ends of the spectrum. In second place, The Craft Beer Co (St Mary Axe) does exactly what it says on the tin – and does it very well indeed – while The Blackfriar is a historic real ale pub that’s stood the test of time. The truth is, though, the square mile awards only go to show the pub is alive and well in 2017… We’ll drink to that.
For info on all the finalists, see Square Mile Pub Awards 2017
Best for Spirits, The Southern Comfort Award: Harrild and Sons
Pubs are not just havens of craft beer and real ale, which is why we teamed up with Southern Comfort to find the City boozer with the best spirits selection, too. Harrild & Sons is not only one of the most handsome pubs on our list, but its subterranean cocktail bar, 5CC, is a must-visit should your drinks taste lean towards interesting Prohibition-style concoctions.
For more info, see harrildandsons.com
